Digital Immigrants
I have found adult learners who are digital immigrants, so much so that they cannot even operate the mouse. I find these students to be easily frustrated and major consumers of class time. Typcially, I encourage their peers to assist them, volunteer my time as much as possible, or ask them to come in during office hours; however, sometime this seems to be a very significant attack on their egos. I've seen older students in tears because of their lack of computer skills/knowledge.
What are some approaches you've found to be successful when dealing with digital immigrants?
Hi James,
The key it to understand what the students need to understand. Your comments reflect that you know how to start with building a foundation and go from there. This is critical for expanded understanding and advanced applications. Good strategy for making this happen.
Gary
I am finding that this is occurring quite often with students. What I generally find is that people use terms that apply to computers to teach someone the basics of computers. So essentially they are using the definition of the word to try to explain that very word. Starting with them from the very beginning of necessary actions and terms is a good stepping stone. Also, reminding them that everyone who has learned anything had to begin somewhere. I do not posess this knowledge through osmosis and neither will they, it will take time and effort.
Adam,
I have also recently seen this reaction, but not from
just older students - but students who may have been gifted in fine art but now applying skills to digitized mechanisms - " halts their creativity... etc.
I think some of the tips - in the courses. to Assure them they are capable of learning this, at their own pace.
Not to judge themselves against other students but, apply time and break up the learning to give them small successes.
good luck!
Hi Adam,
There are a number of approaches that one can take with this group of students. The key in all approaches is to give respect and develop rapport with them. By building the level of trust with them to the point they are comfortable with you as a professional you will be able to give them assistance without them feeling demeaned in anyway.
Gary
